Jungle Gems

Mayco Jungle Gems
Mayco Jungle Gems are special pottery glazes that create spectacular, organic effects during firing. What makes these glazes so unique is the addition of color crystals that expand, crack or splash in unpredictable patterns when heated. This creates a vivid and always surprising end result on every ceramic object. From playful tableware to art objects, with Mayco Jungle Gems every piece of work becomes a colorful eye-catcher.
What are Mayco Jungle Gems?
Mayco Jungle Gems are boron-based glazes specially developed for earthenware temperatures around 1020 to 1060°C (cone 06-04). Each glaze consists of a base layer with a specific color, enriched with crystals that react to heat during firing. Those crystals create expressive effects such as spots, outliers or color explosions. No two results are the same, which is what makes working with Mayco Jungle Gems so inspiring for beginners and experienced ceramists alike.
What makes Mayco Jungle Gems so special?
The great advantage of Mayco Jungle Gems is in its simplicity as well as its effect. You don’t need to mix or prepare anything: the glazes are ready to use immediately. Thanks to their composition, they are excellent for use at lower temperatures, which makes them popular among hobbyists, schools and small studios. Despite their decorative nature, some Mayco Jungle Gems can also be used on functional work, provided you combine them with a food-safe transparent coating. Moreover, there are countless varieties, each with their own hues and characteristic crystal effects, allowing you to experiment endlessly.
This is how to use Mayco Jungle Gems
For best results, it is important to stir the jar well before each use. This is because the crystals quickly sink to the bottom, and by mixing thoroughly you distribute them evenly. Then apply the glaze in several layers, usually three, taking care to spread the crystals evenly across the surface. Mayco Jungle Gems work best on vertical surfaces, where the crystals can run out without flowing. Horizontal work can also be done, but produces different results. And do you want to enhance or enrich the effect? Then you can combine Mayco Jungle Gems perfectly with Mayco Foundations or Stroke & Coat, for example, for extra depth and contrast.
Creative applications
Ceramicists often use Mayco Jungle Gems for projects that focus on expressiveness and color. So you regularly see them on decorative bowls, vases and sculptural objects that are allowed to stand out. They are also ideal for children’s projects: the surprising colors and effects make working with ceramics extra fun and approachable. For personalized gifts or unique works of art, Mayco Jungle Gems are therefore an excellent choice. Because no two baking results are the same, you are truly giving something one-of-a-kind.
Can you use Mayco Jungle Gems on dinnerware?
Although the basic ingredients of many Mayco Jungle Gems are technically food safe, the leached crystals can form sharp glassy edges. For this reason, it is recommended that they be used mainly on the outside of functional objects. Do you still want to glaze the inside of a bowl or mug with Mayco Jungle Gems? If so, always use a transparent, food-safe glaze over it, such as Mayco’s Clear One. This will ensure a smooth, safe surface that can withstand daily use.
How do you choose the right glaze?
There are many factors that determine which Mayco Jungle Gems glaze best suits your project. The color of the base coat is important, of course, but also consider the nature of the crystals: some glazes contain large, pronounced crystals that give a dramatic effect, while others are more subtle. Also pay attention to the flow of the glaze; some types run out considerably, so be sure to keep enough distance from the bottom edge of your piece, or use a drip pan in the kiln. Feel free to combine different glazes to achieve surprising results, and dare to test: small differences in glaze thickness or firing curve can have big effects.
Practical tips for the best results
Use Mayco Jungle Gems preferably on white or light-colored clay for the brightest color reproduction. You can strategically apply additional crystals with a brush or pipette if you want more effect in specific areas. Always apply the layer of crystals last so they remain clearly visible during melting. And perhaps the most important tip: always test on a sample plate first. The beauty of Mayco Jungle Gems lies in its unpredictability, but it’s nice to get an idea in advance of what to expect.
Ordering Mayco Jungle Gems online!
At Ceramics and Glaze, you’ll find a wide range of Mayco Jungle Gems. Whether you’re looking for soft pastel colors with subtle crystals or bold hues with large, colorful specks, we’re happy to help you choose. On our website you will find clear information, firing recommendations and sample photos for each glaze. Do you have questions about applications or combinations? Feel free to contact us for an appointment and stop by for personal advice in our workshop.